Among the handful of items I had purchased, were some things to start my seeds indoors. This sparked a very friendly conversation between myself and the older woman ringing up my items.
We chatted about different types of gardens, methods, and benefits while she diligently proceeded with checking out my items at a decent and effective pace.
I was enjoying our exchange until I noticed that the woman behind me began looking impatient, rolling her eyes, and trying to look around for another line to squeeze herself into. She wore her impatience on her sleeve like an accessory, giving myself and the cashier "dirty looks", despite the fact that our conversation was not affecting the cashier doing her job.
This got me thinking about the fast paced and self oriented society we live in. How many times have I missed the opportunity to encourage someone because I've been "too busy" or too self involved? Sometimes it doesn't require, literally, giving the shirt off your back. Sometimes it just requires a friendly conversation and a word of encouragement, to make someone feel cared for.
I want to set an example to my children of being a servant to others. I want to teach them to always take the time to care for others.
If we all took the time each day to encourage even one person, it would be infections and immeasurably beneficial to the well being of us all.
Proverbs 16:24
New International Version (NIV)
24 Gracious words are a honeycomb,
sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
When I was a cashier I probably got dirty look all the time. I am pretty oblivious so I didn't notice, but I had conversations with probably half the people that came through my line. I was the friendly cashier. But I was also very efficient. I love having random conversations with people, but they might just think I am crazy :)
ReplyDeleteYou turned off your CAPTCHA! You are my hero of the day!
ReplyDeleteGreat points Melissa. I'm always amazed at how good it feels to either be on the receiving end or the giving end of a positive comment and smile.
ReplyDeleteGood work, Rachel! I love friendly people! :)
ReplyDeleteYeah, I finally took the time to find it and turn it off. ;)
Thanks Emma. :)